It's only been a few weeks since TapeOpCon wrapped up. Those of you that were there know how much fun we had and how much there was to learn. I know there are a lot of you readers whom we never see at these events, and I'd like to invite you to consider attending next year. No matter what level of recording experience you think you are at, especially if you are working alone in a home or commercial studio, interacting with your peers can have many advantages. People have hooked up with clients, shared work with other studios, found out about deals on gear and even found romance (crazy, I know) at TapeOpCon. And the excitement and rush of learning about new ideas and sharing information sends everyone back home excited to record and create great music.

Even if you're never going to attend our event, what about hitting up an AES Convention when there's one near you? Check out the massive exhibit hall and attend interesting panels. What about meeting up with other recording folks in your own region? NARAS does an annual Studio Summit in Seattle and I always bring a car full of friends to attend. We get to talk to peers and hear from other professionals as well.

Don't live in a bubble. There's much to be gained by getting out and meeting other people with common interests!

PS: May 6th saw the passing of Grant McLennan, whom along with Robert Forster was the team behind the Go-Betweens. I had the pleasure of recording an album for them in 1999, and was struck by Grant's talent and friendship. I was always hoping to work with them again someday. All our thoughts go out to Robert, Grant's girlfriend Emma, Adele and Glenn, and Grant's family.

Tape Op is a bi-monthly magazine devoted to the art of record making.

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